Lakeland Bank to celebrate 50th anniversary

Half a century after opening its doors for business in Newfoundlandm Lakeland Bank has grown to a network of more than 50 offices throughout the state.
In every market Lakeland Bank serves, it is committed to meeting the financial needs of the local residents and businesses, as well as helping to build a community that is healthy and vibrant. To commemorate its 50th anniversary which is officially May 19, Lakeland Bank will be hosting a series of activities.
"Lakeland Bank was founded by three Oak Ridge, N.J. businessmen — all former officers and directors of the Bank — who recognized the public need for a local bank that could conveniently service the area and support the community," said Thomas J. Shara, president and chief executive officer. "We continue to uphold the philosophies of our founders by remaining dedicated to relationship banking and supporting initiatives critical to the success of economically strong communities such as affordable housing, education and health services."
Lakeland Bank will be celebrating its 50th anniversary with the following promotions for the customers and communities the Bank serves: 50th Anniversary Debit Card Sweepstakes, Days of Giving.
To mark Lakeland Bank's 50-year milestone and kickstart the future of the Bank, the Executive Team, Board of Directors and Founders will also ring the NASDAQ opening bell on May 20.
"Lakeland will continue to build on its infrastructure of financial strength, profitability, efficiency and quality service," said Shara. "Our goal is to continue to grow the Bank's footprint into new markets both organically and through acquisitions. As we grow, the bank will remain a trusted community-oriented provider of financial services and will adapt to the technology required to offer retail banking, investment programs and business banking solutions that meet the needs of our customers."
To learn more about Lakeland Bank and its 50-year history, please visit LakelandBank.com<http://www.lakelandbank.com/>.